Acorn Communicator

The Acorn Communicator was a specialised network and communications computer using the 16-bit 65SC816 processor, 512KB RAM and a built-in 300/1200-75 baud modem. Its word processor, spreadsheet and terminal applications ran from ROM.

Sold mainly to business customers rather than through the normal retail channel, it was an unusual non-ARM 16-bit branch in Acorn’s history.

Notable Features

• The main processing arrangement was GTE 65SC816 at 2 MHz.
• Its standard memory provision was 512KB plus 32KB CMOS RAM; expandable to 1MB.
• The model’s storage arrangement was No local disc drive; Econet filing when network interface fitted.

Historical Significance

• Sold mainly to business customers rather than through the normal retail channel, it was an unusual non-ARM 16-bit branch in Acorn’s history.
• This entry represents a distinct processor, storage or enclosure design rather than a software bundle.

Collector’s Notes

• Surviving examples are scarce, and fitted boards, firmware and storage may differ from announced specifications.
• Original documentation, peripherals and prototype provenance are particularly important for specialist Acorn systems.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Acorn Communicator
Manufacturer	Acorn Computers
Launched	Wednesday, January 1, 1986
Discontinued	1987
Country	United Kingdom
CPU	GTE 65SC816 at 2 MHz
Units Sold
Operating System	ROM-based View, ViewSheet, communications and terminal software
I/O	Display, printer, serial, built-in modem, expansion and optional Econet
Keyboard	Integrated full-size keyboard
Storage	No local disc drive; Econet filing when network interface fitted
Sound	Integrated programmable sound
Graphics	Dedicated Acorn video logic
Display	External RGB or monochrome monitor
ROM	256KB ROM containing applications and communications software
RAM	512KB plus 32KB CMOS RAM; expandable to 1MB
CPU Speed	2 MHz